Fr. Paul’s Message

Management of a disability is one mission that has yet to go a long way forward. At this time of technological revolution, ideas travel beyond the borders creating new possibilities. Millions of infants and children are in need of early intervention programs around the world. NIDD has identified this challenge very early on and has taken many pro-active steps in the international arena. The experiences we have gained over the last three decades are very valuable and we are here to share this information with other organizations and professionals. 

For the past three years, NIDD has been endeavoring to put in place a community based developmental program in the state of Tlaxcala, Mexico. After evaluating the need of the state of Tlaxcala, we were able to design a unique program suited to this particular central Mexican state. Prior to finalizing the proposal, we took into consideration their medical, educational, sociological and cultural need. Three years later, we have accomplished our mission fully, which gives us immense satisfaction.

There were many obstacles in accomplishing our goals. Bringing internationally reputed experts from Europe to conduct training for Mexican doctors and other interdisciplinary team members was not only a science, but also an art that had to be mastered. Training approximately 1000 professionals and restructuring the early health care system was a big task; but with the full cooperation of our Mexican team members we achieved consummate success. This year, on October 21st and 22nd, the entire team will celebrate the success of this program with an international convention.

The convention will open up a great opportunity for professionals around Latin America. Participants will get a first-hand experience on how the program helps thousands of children every year. Another important aspect is the remarkably low cost involved in operating this program throughout an era where health care costs continue to escalate on a day-to-day basis.

NIDD is very optimistic and has full faith in the resoluteness of our Mexican doctors and other team members who have dedicated their time and energy to this program. They also understand NIDD’s vision in reaching out to all children in the Western hemisphere through this program. 

Our team members’ whole-hearted, spirited cooperation and enduring enthusiasm have made this program an invaluable social resource. I sincerely thank them and credit them for the success of the program.

NIDD has been, in its own way, playing the role as a facilitator for programs for children for the past thirty years. NIDD has led teams of experts to more than 40 countries in an effort to view, evaluate and select the best practices for children with disabilities. They also aim to replicate it in other parts of the world where it would make a great difference. We have identified interventional strategies, conducted workshops, trained personnel, exchanged experts and organized child development programs. Our journey was long and eventful. Communities around the world have benefited from these activities by combining minds and ideas. Currently, we are evaluating the possibilities of introducing the program in Africa, Latin America and South America.
The example of Mexico and the lessons learned during the years of work are valuable in meeting the challenges of helping children with developmental delays.

I once again salute you, one and all, who have joined hands with us in establishing and carrying out the successful program in Tlaxcala, Mexico.

Fr. Paul Zahler